Compatibility

Connecting the MagSafe Power Adapter to power

Make sure that the AC plug or AC power cord is fully inserted into the power adapter before plugging the adapter into a power outlet. And be sure to plug your adapter into the wall before connecting it to your computer.

Temperature and the MagSafe Power Adapter

The power adapter might become very warm during normal use. The MagSafe and MagSafe 2 Power Adapters comply with the user-accessible surface temperature limits defined by the International Standard for Safety of Information Technology Equipment (IC 60950-1). To reduce the possibility of overheating the power adapter or of heat-related injuries, do one of the following:

Plug the MagSafe Power Adapter directly into a power outlet or surge protector using the AC Plug, and make sure that air can flow around the adapter.

If you’re using the AC power cord, place the MagSafe Power Adapter on a desk, table, or on the floor in a well-ventilated location. Avoid thick carpet, bedding, or furniture that would impact airflow on the adapter, as those items might trap heat radiated from the adapter case. Also avoid prolonged contact between yourself and the adapter brick when the adapter is in use.

The Magsafe connector on your Magsafe Power Adapter might vary based on your computer, and the AC cord and AC plug style might vary based on your country or region.

Removing the MagSafe Power Adapter from power

You should disconnect the MagSafe Power Adapter and disconnect any other cables if any of the following conditions exists:

Your Mac notebook or power adapter is exposed to rain or excessive moisture, or liquid has spilled into the case

Your Mac notebook or power adapter has been dropped, the case has been damaged, or you suspect that service or repair is required

The MagSafe power port

The MagSafe power port on your computer contains a magnet that can erase data on a credit card, iPod, or other device. To preserve your data, don't place these or other magnetically sensitive material or devices within 1 inch (25 mm) of this port.

Disconnecting the MagSafe Connector from your computer

Disconnecting the MagSafe adapter from the computer properly will reduce wear on the adapter cable and will increase the life of your MagSafe Adapter.

"T" Style MagSafe 2 Adapters

1. Grab the MagSafe 2 head.

2. Tilt the connector up, down, left, or right to disconnect.

"L" Style MagSafe Adapters

1. Grab the MagSafe head.

2. Tilt the connector away from the computer to disconnect.

"T" Style MagSafe Adapters

1. Grab the MagSafe head.

2. Tilt the connector up, down, left, or right to disconnect.

Don't pull on the cable itself or bend the cable to disconnect the MagSafe adapter, as that puts additional stress on the cable.

Using the MagSafe to MagSafe 2 converter

If you have a Mac notebook with a MagSafe 2 power port, you'll need the MagSafe to MagSafe 2 converter to use previous MagSafe adapters or Apple Displays with the "T" or "L"-style MagSafe connectors.

The MagSafe to MagSafe 2 converter connects in between the MagSafe "T" or "L" connection and the MagSafe 2 port on the computer. It can be disconnected just like the MagSafe "T" style adapter or MagSafe 2 "T" style adapter discussed earlier in this article.

Learn more

For more information on your MagSafe Power Adapter, see these articles: